IntegrIT Network Solutions makes a donation to a local food bank on behalf of its customers in lieu of corporate giving gifts
With the holiday season in full swing, businesses across Washington State are giving and receiving holiday gifts of chocolates, gourmet food, or some sort of interesting gadget. IntegrIT Network Solutions was no exception, up until a few years ago. We found ourselves deliberating over what to give our customers to show how much we appreciate them and their business.
What to do for them? Buy a gift they may or may not want or need? How about a bottle of wine? Maybe they don’t drink. Candy? Maybe they are watching their weight. Calendars? Desk stuff? Then we got to thinking – it’s impossible to find something that everyone will want or need. So what could we do for everyone that would be appreciated and meaningful to all?
From left to right: Julie Rice from IntegrIT Network Solutions presents her company’s donation to Ashley Gammell of Food Lifeline on Nov. 18, 2011
With so many people in our local communities in need, we felt giving gifts that may or may not be wanted did not seem appropriate. We wanted to do something meaningful, and decided to give the money that we would have spent on gifts to a local charity, on behalf of our customers. Those funds are better put to use helping those less fortunate throughout our community.
In lieu of corporate holiday gifts this year, IntegrIT Network Solutions has made a donation to Food Lifeline of Western Washington. By using 96% of its revenue to feed hungry people, Food Lifeline is efficient, effective, and makes the most of the donations the organization receives. Last year, Food Lifeline helped feed more than 745,000 hungry people through our network of nearly 300 local food banks, meal programs, and shelters.
This is the third year in which IntegrIT Network Solutions has kept with this tradition, which has been well-received by our customers. Many of you have told us you are happy to receive our card announcing a donation has been made in your name. It is very heartwarming to hear you tell us you are glad to know that money is being put to good use. It proves that the best gift is giving to those in need.
This year, there are more organizations in need of help and less people who have money to spare; this formula does not bode well for charities or the people who rely on them. The misconception that it takes deep pockets to give to charity scares away some potential givers. The truth is, any amount counts and is appreciated.
Our hope is that other local companies will take note and choose to do something meaningful and lasting, rather than business as usual. Instead of spending money on material goods for their customers, put that money toward a charitable cause. Charities welcome the donations. The community benefits from your generosity and you take care of your holiday shopping list while truly honoring the spirit of the season.
ABOUT FOOD LIFELINE
Food Lifeline is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending hunger in local communities throughout Western Washington for more than 30 years. Food Lifeline’s mission is to end hunger in Western Washington by engaging communities and mobilizing resources. By using 96% of its revenue to feed hungry people, Food Lifeline is efficient, effective, and makes the most of the donations the organization receives. Last year, Food Lifeline helped feed more than 745,000 hungry people through our network of nearly 300 local food banks, meal programs, and shelters. More information on Food Lifeline is available from the company’s website, www.foodlifeline.org, or by emailing fllinfo@fll.org, or calling 206-545-6600.
